I am getting seriously into Thames barges.
It all started when Speedline Models acquired the HFM kits of old and now I'm busy revamping them right now, starting with the Thames Barge.
(The kit is staying much as it was except that now it has laser cut Perspex components instead of a printed bit of plasticard. A new rudder (and extension for sailing) has been produced in laser-cut Perspex as have the new lee boards. Two little laser-cut lee-board winches with working gear sets and ruffle and a brailing winch with brakes and ruffle and an anchor winch made in the same way makes up the all the winches. It's coming on well so won't be too long.
Anyway, apart from that, I am getting really into the idea of doing a kit for the James Piper. It looks nice and shopuld be fast???. Plank on frame, all laser cut wood with etched brass components, brass blocks and stays sets and as much detail as possible. I think I will do it in two scales, 1/24th of course and a 30" waterline version. What do you think? I would love to know.
Many, many thanks to Ivor Bittle and to Richard Chesney for the inspiration! A brilliant site from Ivor and a brilliant data pack from Richard (AMBO).
The Thames barge is a big change from lifeboats and as yet, I know far too little about the subject but it will happen. I will be going to see some barges for real of course with my Brownie and will also be going to see some model barge racing, (yes, I am begging for an invite Jim).
AdrianG